At a time when Manchester United supporters are desperate to see fresh firepower leading the line, the club has decided to take a very different route.
After a disappointing domestic campaign and another trophyless season, many expected United to go all in for a proven goalscorer.
Rumours had been swirling since the window opened. But now, it seems that fans hoping for a big-name striker signing may be left frustrated.
The player in question had long been viewed as the ideal solution. Physically dominant, dangerous in the air, and proven at the top level, his name was on the lips of many in and around Old Trafford.
Yet, behind the scenes, the club’s recruitment team has other ideas.
Manchester United walkaway from signing £63m striker
According to ESPN, Manchester United are not planning to pursue a deal for Victor Osimhen, the forward who was seen as the missing piece.
Despite the player being available and open to a move, the club feels he does not match the profile they are seeking for this summer’s rebuild.
Another reason, as revealed by the same report, is the price tag. With the striker's valuation sitting around £63 million, United are not prepared to spend that sum, especially after already committing similar figures to sign Matheus Cunha.
The club is also preparing to make a strong push for Bryan Mbeumo, which would further stretch the budget. The striker United are walking away from is Victor Osimhen.
Despite his proven record in European circuit and his strong physical attributes, the club believes he is not the ideal fit for manager Ruben Amorim’s tactical system.
While fans may be disappointed, the club and, especially Ruben Amorim, appears to be focused on building a more fluid, multi-functional attack; one that prioritises versatility over raw goal output.
The decision is bold, but only time will tell if passing on Victor Osimhen proves to be the right call.
The Red Devils are also tracking the situation of Viktor Gyokores, someone Ruben Amorim knows pretty well since his days at Sporting.